Netanyahu has retorted that the priority should be eliminating remaining Hamas fighters in Rafah. They demand that Netanyahu choose between leaving Gaza under Israeli military control or establishing a Palestinian alternative to Hamas with international support. At the height of the Israeli counteroffensive in December, around 28 IDF brigades were operating in Gaza. Such a move would likely necessitate Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank and the dismantling of illegal settlements, alienating his right-wing coalition partners. Many Israelis believe Netanyahu is prolonging the Gaza conflict to maintain power, with the war’s conclusion potentially triggering elections.

Source: Daily News Egypt May 21, 2024 11:32 UTC